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The following was submitted by Ellen Talkowsky, special projects coordinator for the city of Salem:

Beginning at 3 p.m. today, participating museums and attractions will open free of charge to Salem residents for 'Mayor's Night Out' as part of the 31st annual Haunted Happenings celebration.

Residents who provide photo identification proving residency in the city - students can use school ID's, bus passes or library cards - can gain free entry to 10 different museums and attractions throughout the city, including the Salem Pirate Museum, Witch Dungeon Museum, and Salem's 13 Ghosts 3-D Haunted House.

A complete list of participating businesses can be found below, or just take a stroll downtown and keep your eyes peeled for "Mayor's Night Out" signs hanging on the doors of participating attractions.

The Museum Place Mall and South Harbor Garages will also offer free parking to Salem residents after 4 p.m.

"The museums, attractions and merchants realize that October is a busy time in Salem, and 'Mayor's Night Out' is their way to say thank you to our residents for enduring some of the inconveniences during the Halloween season," Driscoll said in a statement.

At 5:30 p.m., children will have the opportunity to go trick-or-treating at downtown area businesses with Driscoll. Children and parents can pick up trick-or-treat bags at the big fountain by the Museum Place Mall. And of course, costumes are encouraged!

"I would like to thank the business community for opening their doors to Salem residents this Friday," Driscoll said. "Whether it be by offering free admission into their attractions or by participating in our Trick-or-Treat event."